Understanding signs and symptoms of concussion

There’s no better time than the start of school and the fall sports season to refresh your brain on the important signs and symptoms of a concussion.

The severity of a head injury can vary widely depending on the cause and the age of the child. Concussions can occur from direct blows to the head or when a whiplash injury occurs, throwing a child’s head forward and backward.

For parents, it can be hard to know whether an injury was just a bump to the head or might have more serious complications requiring medical evaluation. Whether a fall during play or a collision on the sports field, it is important for parents, teachers and coaches to recognize the symptoms of concussion and understand the risks if a concussion goes unrecognized.

A concussion is the brain’s reaction to a blow to the head that usually results in a change in the way the brain works chemically, leading to physical and emotional symptoms.

By definition, a concussion is not associated with any change in the structure of the brain, so a CT scan or brain MRI after a concussion will be normal. Despite this normal-appearing brain, your child may still have symptoms.

Because an individual’s reaction to a concussion can vary, it's important for parents to be on the lookout for the following common symptoms after a head injury:

• Headache
• Sensitivity to light or sound
• Nausea
• Dizziness and difficulty walking
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Loss of concentration
• Moodiness/irritability

Any of these symptoms following an injury can indicate that a concussion has occurred.

If you suspect that a child has a concussion, apply the motto, “When in doubt, sit them out.” Make sure the child is removed from contact sports or play until she is evaluated by a medical professional. 

Family physicians and pediatricians are the first line to help guide parents who are concerned about concussion. For children with unusual or prolonged symptoms, a pediatric neurologist can also be very helpful in consultation with your child’s regular doctor.

To prevent concussion, make sure your child always wears a helmet when riding a bike and wears a seatbelt properly in the car.

Remember, if you are concerned that an injury has occurred, it is best to have your child rest and call your doctor to discuss any next steps or evaluation that may be needed for your child. The brain is one of the most important parts of the body.